Pakistan’s anti-cybercrime authorities have launched an investigation after conducting a raid on a Lahore based call centre, where officials claimed that artificial intelligence (AI) tools were allegedly being used to create fake explicit images of individuals who failed to repay loans obtained through instant loan applications. The operation was conducted at Talk Master Private Limited in GCP Society under the supervision of Cybercrime Additional Director Atif Ameer after search warrants were obtained. Authorities said 39 individuals, including one woman and 38 men, were taken into custody during the action as part of the ongoing inquiry into the reported activities of the centre.
During the raid, investigators recovered 40 laptops and 41 mobile phones from the premises. Officials said the seized devices have been secured and will undergo forensic examination to gather further information about the operations being carried out from the location. According to investigators, the call centre was linked with several instant loan applications, including Gurbat Fund, Jahez Fund, Cash Air, Credit Check and Credit Support. Authorities are examining the systems, communication records and digital evidence collected from the premises to determine the scope of activities associated with these applications and the individuals involved.
Investigators stated that the loan applications allegedly requested access to users’ mobile phone photo galleries and contact lists during installation. Officials claimed that when borrowers were unable to repay loans within the required timeframe, staff at the call centre allegedly used AI based tools to manipulate personal photographs into fake explicit images. The images were then reportedly used as a method of pressure, with affected individuals allegedly being threatened that the altered material would be shared with their family members and other contacts if payments were not made immediately. Authorities are reviewing these claims as part of their investigation and assessing how digital tools may have been used in the reported activities.
The inquiry will also examine the financial transactions connected with the operation, including the amounts received by those involved and whether the network had any connections beyond Pakistan. The forensic review of laptops and mobile phones is expected to provide additional details regarding communication methods, application management systems and potential misuse of personal information. Cybercrime authorities are also assessing whether further action is required based on the evidence collected during the investigation. The case highlights growing concerns around the misuse of digital platforms, personal data access and emerging technologies in online financial activities. As instant loan applications continue to expand, cybersecurity experts have repeatedly emphasized the importance of reviewing app permissions, protecting personal information and ensuring that digital lending services operate within legal and regulatory frameworks. The investigation into the Lahore call centre will determine the nature of the alleged activities and the extent of any potential violations involving borrowers’ data and online privacy.
Follow the SPIN IDG WhatsApp Channel for updates across the Smart Pakistan Insights Network covering all of Pakistan’s technology ecosystem.
